Dog Already Best In Tow

Zorro Helps Disabled Owner Walk And Is Set To Strut At Westminster

The 6-year-old Belgian Malinois has two roles: show dog Zorro del Mango and just plain Zorro the service dog.

A frequent flier with adorable brown eyes, Zorro will be heading to Madison Square Garden in New York to compete in the Westminster Kennel Club dog show Feb. 15-16.

His disabled owner, Sara Donadei-Blood, will be his handler in the show.

Donadei-Blood, 38, was born with a rare hip deformity known as coxa vara. Zorro, a sturdy 55 pounds, helps provide momentum and stability as she walks, supporting her weaker left side.

"He is basically a four-wheel cane that picks things up for me and provides balance," she said. "He's like a cane or a wheelchair."

Although it's not unheard of for owner-handlers with disabilities to show dogs at Westminster, it is uncommon, said David Frei, longtime co-host of USA Network's annual telecast. The popular dog show has been around for 134 years.

Zorro is no stranger to the ring. He has won dozens of ribbons in local competitions, placed second in the American Kennel Club/Eukanuba National Championship in California, and is making his second run at Westminster, an elite competition open only to champions.

A "popsicle pup," Zorro and his littermates were produced from the frozen sperm of a long-dead sire. Purchased from a breeder in Virginia, he came to live with Donadei-Blood, a hobby trainer, as a 12-week-old puppy. She said she taught him everything he knows.

Zorro shares her North Lauderdale home with three other dogs and four cats. The two Siamese, Dharma and Selkie, are show cats.

It's hard to believe the sweet-natured Zorro belongs to a breed better known for police work and military service.

On a trip to New York last year, a little old lady spilled coffee on him while he lay at his owner's feet. "He turned around and kissed her," she recalled, then shared a little secret.

"He is a lover, not a fighter. My friends tease me: He's not a real Malinois. He won't bite."

Zorro runs over to greet a visitor, looking for a pat.

"He's a big flirt, as you can see," Donadei-Blood notes.

Even with frisky felines. Zorro kisses Sebastian, a chubby former stray who seems accustomed to the affection.

Westminster is just two weeks away, but Zorro seems unconcerned as he dozes lazily on the couch.

"He's not a cocky dog," said his owner. "Some dogs strut. They know they're gorgeous. He doesn't have a clue."

This year, she hopes Zorro wins Best of Breed so he can go for Best in Show, but she realizes the competition is intense.

"We are the 'little guys' given the chance to strut our stuff - and hopefully walk away with the grand prize of Best in Show. Either way, I will still leave with the best dog there."